Episoder
-
Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Yvonne explores the increasing challenges faced by researchers in securing funding and sustaining scientific progress. Highlighting her personal experiences and comparisons over the past two decades, she underscores the dramatic rise in costs, the growing competition for limited funds, and the impact of modern research expenses. Yvonne also reflects on the broader economic and institutional factors that have made it harder for early career researchers to thrive, painting a vivid picture of the current landscape of scientific research and the urgent need for more robust financial support.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-cost-of-research/
--
Dr Yvonne Couch is an Alzheimer's Research UK Fellow and Associate Professor at the University of Oxford. Yvonne studies the role of extracellular vesicles and their role in changing the function of the vasculature after stroke, aiming to discover why the prevalence of dementia after stroke is three times higher than the average. It is her passion for problem solving and love of science that drives her, in advancing our knowledge of disease. Yvonne writes about her work, academic life, and careers as she takes a new road into independent research @dr_yvonne_couch
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Helena Gellersen, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Helena shares valuable tips on making the most of academic conferences, particularly the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC). She offers practical advice on leveraging conference resources, setting goals, effective networking, and presenting research. She emphasises the importance of preparation, strategic planning, and follow-up to enhance the conference experience and foster meaningful connections, ultimately advancing one's career. Her guidance is particularly beneficial for early career researchers navigating the often overwhelming environment of large academic conferences.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-ultimate-guide-to-making-the-most-of-the-aaic/
--
Dr Helena Gellersen is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) and current Education Chair Trainee for the ISTAART Neuroimaging. The focus of Helena's work is on identifying preclinical signatures of Alzheimer’s disease and to develop novel memory and neuroimaging markers for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease and for monitoring disease progression. @HGellersen
Find out more about the Neuroimaging PIA and ISTAART at alz.org/istaart
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Mangler du episoder?
-
Rebecca Williams, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Rebecca reflects on the intense pressure she has felt throughout her academic career to be perfect, driven by the fear of failure and the need to prove her worth in a privileged position. She discusses how this perfectionism, common in academia, stems from a deep-seated need to justify her place and avoid the perceived monster of failure. Through her journey, she learns to shift her perspective from running away from failure to embracing her passion for science, realising the importance of balance, and accepting that making mistakes is a fundamental part of being human.
Sound familiar? Let us know what you think in the comments.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-perfectionism-the-why-matters/
--
Rebecca Williams is PhD student at the University of Cambridge. Though originally from ‘up North’ in a small town called Leigh, she did her undergraduate and masters at the University of Oxford before defecting to Cambridge for her doctorate researching Frontotemporal dementia and Apathy. She now spends her days collecting data from wonderful volunteers, and coding. Outside work, she plays board games, and is very crafty. @beccasue99
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Amelia Robson, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In her first blog for Dementia Researcher, Amelia shares her experiences as a young researcher working with people living with dementia, highlighting the importance of building rapport through genuine conversation and shared interests. She discusses the challenges of connecting with older generations and offers practical tips on engaging patients, such as complimenting their home décor and discussing common hobbies like birdwatching and stargazing. Amelia's insights emphasise the significance of a positive, open approach to foster trust and improve the research experience for both patients and researchers.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-working-with-patients-from-a-different-generation/
--
Amelia Robson is a Research Assistant at Northumbria University supporting delivery of NHS Clinical Trials, particularly in working with Dementia with Lewy bodies and Alzheimer’s disease patients. This work currently involves visiting patient’s homes and applying polysomnography sleep equipment on their face, scalp and body. Amelia graduated in Psychology in 2021 and is passionate about supporting people living with the dementia, and providing help for care givers. Her top tip.... Trust your Gut to stay on the right path. Follow Amelia Robson on LinkedIn
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Clarissa Giebel narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Clarissa discusses her learning from serving on an NIHR funding committee, detailing the rigorous process of grant review and decision-making. She highlights the valuable lessons learned about crafting strong grant applications, the importance of presenting research clearly to a diverse committee, and the critical role of patient and public involvement. Clarissa also discusses the commitment required for this role and encourages early career researchers to get involved in grant reviewing and committee membership for professional growth and a deeper understanding of the funding landscape. --Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-what-actually-happens-at-funding-committees/
--
Dr Clarissa Giebel is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Liverpool and NIHR ARC North West Coast. Clarissa has been working in dementia care research for over 10 years focusing her research on helping people with dementia to live at home independently and well for longer, addressing inequalities that people with dementia and carers can face. Outside of her day work, Clarissa has also organised a local dementia network - the Liverpool Dementia & Ageing Research Forum.
--
If you would like to write your own blog drop us a line, we're always on the look out for new contributors to write about their research, careers + more [email protected]
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Join Athena Bratopoulou as she interviews Dr Zsófia László about her research on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) / Motor Neuron Disease (MND)
Athena Bratopoulou, an undergraduate Neuroscience student at the University of Dundee, interviews Dr Zsófia László, an MNDA Junior Fellow. They discuss Dr László's journey into the field of Motor Neuron Disease (MND) research, her work on synaptic connections, and the crucial role of glial cells in neurodegeneration. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of scientific research, the importance of a supportive research environment and the connecting with people living with the disease, and the hope for new treatments for MND. This blog provides a personal and professional glimpse into the lives of researchers dedicated to understanding and combating MND.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-quest-to-understand-motor-neuron-disease/
#MND #ALS
--
Athena Bratopoulou is currently I am doing an internship in the Henstridge Lab at the School of Medicine, University of Dundee, which is centred around synaptoneurosomes in health and in ALS. Athena moved from Greece with her heart set on studying the brain, with a firm belief that it is the single most fascinating thing!
Dr Zsofia Laszlo from the School of Medicine, University of Dundee and Euan MacDonald Centre. Zsofia moved to Scotland in October 2020, after finishing her PhD at the Institute of Experimental Medicine in Budapest, Hungary. She joined the laboratory of Euan MacDonald Centre member Dr Chris Henstridge to investigate the mechanisms behind the loss of connection (synapses) between brain cells in MND.
--
Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice [email protected]
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Sam Moxon, narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Sam explores the potential link between diet and Motor Neuron Disease (MND). With only 10% of MND cases being genetically inherited, Sam investigates the role of environmental factors, particularly diet, in the development and management of MND. He examines various diets, including carnivore, ketogenic, paleo, Mediterranean, and vegan, evaluating their potential benefits and drawbacks. While some diets show promise in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, the evidence remains inconclusive. Sam emphasises the need for further research to understand the impact of diet on MND and to develop personalised nutritional strategies for people at risk and those living with the disease.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-diet-and-motor-neuron-disease-is-there-anything-here/
--
Dr Sam Moxon is a biomaterials Research Fellow at University of Birmingham. His expertise falls on the interface between biology and engineering. His PhD focussed on regenerative medicine and he now works on trying to develop 3D bioprinting techniques with human stem cells, so that we better understand and treat degenerative diseases. Outside of the lab he hikes through the Lake District and is an expert on all things Disney.
--
Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice [email protected]
This podcast is brought to you in association with the NIHR, Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Hannah Smith narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In her first blog for Dementia Researcher, Hannah provides a detailed account of her experience as the first Early Career Researcher (ECR) on MND Scotland’s Scientific Advisory Panel. She emphasises the immense value this role has brought to her career development and the benefits it offers to both the research community and those affected by motor neuron disease. Hannah discusses the challenges ECRs face in transitioning to independent research roles and highlights how observing the grant review process has enhanced her grant-writing skills. She advocates for other funding bodies to include ECRs in their panels, noting the unique perspectives and technical insights they bring to the table.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-grant-review-process-perspective-of-an-ecr/
#MND
--
Dr Hannah Smith is a committed science communicator, ECR rep on MND Scotland’s grant reviewing Scientific Advisory Panel and Postdoctoral Research Fellow working on Motor Neuron Disease (MND) at The University of Edinburgh. Hannah's current work is bioinformatics-focused, generating and analysing the transcriptome and translatome in the motor neurons at pre- and early symptomatic stages. She hopes to find new insights into the earliest cellular dysfunction of ALS/MND, focused around changes to the protein translation.
--
Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice [email protected]
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Connor Richardson narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Connor narrates his journey in his blog "Academic Promotions: A Tale of Two Tries." He discusses the challenges and emotional rollercoaster of applying for an academic promotion, detailing his unsuccessful first attempt and the lessons he learned from it. Connor reflects on the daunting application process, the feelings of imposter syndrome, and the eventual disappointment. However, he also highlights the growth and new perspectives gained, including a more realistic view of his career and the importance of self-worth. His story is a candid and insightful read for anyone navigating the complexities of academic promotions.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-academic-promotions-a-tale-of-two-tries/
--
Dr Connor Richardson is a Neuro-epidemiology Research Associate (soon to be NIHR Research Fellow) in the Newcastle University Population Health Sciences Institute. Connor is the research statistician for the Cognitive Function and Ageing studies (CFAS) multi-centre population cohort. His research interest lies in using advanced statistical modelling and machine learning to measure dementia risk. Connor blogs about his research, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and sometimes his Pomapoo’s.
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Ajantha Abey narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In his guest blog, Ajantha, a PhD student at the University of Oxford, explores the transformative potential of AI in dementia research at the basic science level. He discusses how AI can enhance literature searches, improve conference collaborations, and analyse large datasets, thereby accelerating discoveries and innovations in the field. By utilising AI, researchers can navigate the overwhelming amount of scientific literature, find relevant collaborations, and efficiently analyse complex data, ultimately leading to more targeted and effective research outcomes. Ajantha also addresses the challenges and risks associated with AI, emphasising the need for responsible and ethical implementation to maximise its benefits in dementia research.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-transformative-potential-of-ai/
#AI #BasicScience #DementiaResearch
--
Ajantha Abey is a PhD student in the Kavli Institute at University of Oxford. He is interested in the cellular mechanisms of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other diseases of the ageing brain. Previously, having previoulsy explored neuropathology in dogs with dementia and potential stem cell replacement therapies. He now uses induced pluripotent stem cell derived neurons to try and model selective neuronal vulnerability: the phenomenon where some cells die but others remain resilient to neurodegenerative diseases.
--
Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice [email protected]
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
This time Yvonne discusses waste in academic research and sheds light on the systemic inefficiencies plaguing the academic world, where valuable resources, time, and expertise are often squandered. She highlights the prevalence of unused, expensive equipment gathering dust, the precarious nature of short-term research contracts, and the vast amounts of lab space lying idle. Yvonne calls for a rethink of how academic institutions allocate funds, manage space, and support researchers to reduce waste and improve the overall productivity and impact of scientific research. Her personal anecdotes and insightful observations make a compelling case for urgent reforms in academia.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-waste-in-academic-research/
--
Dr Yvonne Couch is an Alzheimer's Research UK Fellow and Associate Professor at the University of Oxford. Yvonne studies the role of extracellular vesicles and their role in changing the function of the vasculature after stroke, aiming to discover why the prevalence of dementia after stroke is three times higher than the average. It is her passion for problem solving and love of science that drives her, in advancing our knowledge of disease. Yvonne writes about her work, academic life, and careers as she takes a new road into independent research @dr_yvonne_couch
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Yasmin Bonsu, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Yasmin, a Neuroscience student at The University of Manchester, discusses the invaluable benefits of completing a placement year. She explains how such experiences bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application, enhancing scientific skills and confidence. Yasmin shares her journey of securing a placement, highlighting the challenges of rejection and the ultimate rewards of perseverance. She emphasises that a placement year not only makes students more attractive to employers but also helps them clarify their career goals. Ultimately, she encourages students to gain practical experience to better understand their post-university aspirations.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-benefits-of-completing-a-placement-year/
--
Yasmin Bonsu is an an undergraduate student from the University of Manchester currently undertaking a placement year at Wade-Martins Lab at Oxford University. Yasmin is investigating the activity of proteoforms of the granin family in cortical neurons insulted with oligomerised amyloid beta. Her goal is to finish her placement year, earn her bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, and then pursue a PhD in clinical neuroscience. Through Yasmin's blogs we'll gain insights on life as an undergraduate, and hopefully inspire others to pursue a career in dementia research. @yasminnnx2
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Jodi Watt, narrating a new blog they wrote for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog Jodi shares their personal journey of grappling with the decision to remain in academia or pursue a different career path. They discuss the pressures and uncertainties they face, from the desire for personal growth and career advancement to the challenges of finding job security and a supportive work environment. Through introspective questions and reflections, Jodi explores the complexities of making such a pivotal career choice, aiming to find clarity and direction amidst the indecision. Have you faced a similar decision? How did you appraoch the question?Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-should-i-stay-or-should-i-go/
#Academia
--
Dr Jodi Watt is a Postdoctoral Researcher at University of Glasgow. Jodi's academic interests are in both healthy ageing and neurodegenerative diseases of older age, and they are currently working on drug repurposing for dementia. Previously they worked on understanding structural, metabolic and physiological brain changes with age, as measured using magnetic resonance imaging. As a queer and neurodiverse person, Jodi is also incredibly interested in improving diversity and inclusion practices both within and outside of the academic context.
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Clarissa Giebel narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Clarissa shares her experience in running a successful journal club for a dementia research group at the University of Liverpool. Meeting monthly, the club allows members to discuss recent papers, critically analyse research, and build capacity in public speaking. Tips for setting up a journal club include booking rooms and presenters in advance, selecting recent papers, and encouraging open discussions. Additionally, inviting external participants can enrich the discussions and make the club more inclusive. Clarissa emphasises the minimal effort required to maintain the club once established and invites others to join. Don't have colleagues who would join, or the time to start your own? Dementia Researcher can help... find out more.... https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/virtual-journal-club-platform-for-dementia-researchers/ --Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-journal-clubs-how-can-i-set-one-up/
--
Dr Clarissa Giebel is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Liverpool and NIHR ARC North West Coast. Clarissa has been working in dementia care research for over 10 years focusing her research on helping people with dementia to live at home independently and well for longer, addressing inequalities that people with dementia and carers can face. Outside of her day work, Clarissa has also organised a local dementia network - the Liverpool Dementia & Ageing Research Forum, and has recently started her own podcast called the Ageing Scientist.
--
If you would like to write your own blog drop us a line, we're always on the look out for new contributors to write about their research, careers + more [email protected]
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Emma Law, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Emma has over 35 years of experience in clinical trials, and in this blog she offers a candid look into the role of a 'rater' within clinical trials. She highlights the necessity for consistency in rating cognitive abilities across global trials and illustrates the challenges faced by raters, including stringent vendor assessments and the paradox of qualifications versus practical experience. Through personal anecdotes, she reveals the often arbitrary nature of rater selection and the impact it can have on research sites, emphasising the need for a more equitable and effective assessment system.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-so-you-think-you-could-be-a-ratermaybe-not/
#DementiaResearch #ClinicalTrails #CognitiveAssessment #Research #MMSE
--
Dr Emma Law is Strategic Manager for the The Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network in Scotland. Emma has 13 years experience as a Clinical Trails Network Manager and over 35 years experience as a Nurse, many of which were spent in the delivery of Clinical Research Trials. Emma completed her PhD and is passionate about giving people living with dementia and their carers access to participate in research.
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Bernie McInally narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Bernie McInally, a retired mental health nurse, shares his journey of finding purpose and fulfilment in dementia research. Initially reluctant, Bernie’s involvement with the Scottish Dementia Clinical Research Network (SDCRN) transformed his retirement, merging clinical expertise with newfound research skills. His story highlights how fate led him to continue contributing to the field post-retirement, making his transition seamless and rewarding. Bernie’s experience underscores the value of blending clinical experience with research, encouraging others to explore similar paths as they approach retirement.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-fate-research-and-retirement/
--
Bernie McInally is a Clinical Studies Officer at NHS Lothian and the Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network. Bernie's background is in Nursing, working in Mental Health and with Older People. He retired from full time NHS clinical work, and is now back working in Clinical Research supporting delivery of the Enabling Research in Care Homes (ENRICH) Scotland. He is passionate about research delivery, and opening access to people in all communities.
--
Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice [email protected]
This podcast is brought to you in association with the NIHR, Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Clíona Farrell, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Clíona shares her personal journey of writing a PhD thesis, offering invaluable tips and strategies to make the process more manageable and enjoyable. She emphasises the importance of meticulous planning, from setting clear timelines and choosing examiners to structuring the thesis and selecting conducive writing environments. Cliona candidly discusses the challenges she faced (but you will notice she is Dr, so it worked), including managing time effectively and maintaining a work-life balance, while encouraging readers to celebrate small milestones and prioritize self-care. Her practical advice aims to demystify the thesis-writing process, making it less daunting for PhD students.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-tackling-the-phd-thesis-through-planning/
#DementiaResearch #ThesisWriting #PhDStudent #PhDTips #PhDHelp
--
Dr Clíona Farrell is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London. Her work focuses on understanding neuroinflammation in Down syndrome, both prior to, and in response to, Alzheimer’s disease pathology. Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Clíona completed her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience in Trinity College, and then worked as a research assistant in the Royal College of Surgeons studying ALS and Parkinson’s disease. She also knows the secret behind scopping the perfect 99 ice-cream cone. @ClionaFarrell_
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In her blog, Emily talks about the challenges she faces transitioning back to work after maternity leave.Candidly discussing the difficulties of finding suitable accommodation in London's demanding rental market and the reality of securing childcare while managing a limited budget. Despite these challenges, Emily remains optimistic about her ability to balance work and family life effectively, thanks to the flexible nature of her PhD program. Her narrative not only highlights the logistical hurdles but also reflects on the emotional and strategic planning required for such a significant life change.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-life-after-maternity-leave-planning-a-return-to-work/
#DementiaResearch #AcademicMother #Academia #MaternityLeave #Research
--
Emily Spencer is a PhD Student at University College London looking at improving how GPs communicate with people with dementia and their family carers about their future care. Emily previous had a 5 year career break to pursue a career as a musician, and has previously undertaken research on improving the care people with dementia receive from their GP practice, as well as end-of-life and palliative care provision in the community. Emily is also a new mum and will be writing about her experiences navigating motherhood and a research career.
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In her blog, Yvonne explores the dynamics of supervising PhD students, comparing different supervision styles to parenting methods. She describes a spectrum ranging from 'Drone' supervision, where advisors micromanage every detail, to 'Free-range' supervision, which allows students considerable independence. Yvonne advocates for a balanced approach, warning against the extremes of over-involvement or neglect. She emphasises the importance of adapting supervision style to the individual needs of students to foster resilience, adaptability, and genuine learning, ultimately aiming for what she terms 'Lighthouse' supervision—guiding without over-directing.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-supervising-phd-students-blog/
#PhDSupervisor #PhDLife #PI #PrincipleInvestigator #Teacher
--
Dr Yvonne Couch is an Alzheimer's Research UK Fellow and Associate Professor at the University of Oxford. Yvonne studies the role of extracellular vesicles and their role in changing the function of the vasculature after stroke, aiming to discover why the prevalence of dementia after stroke is three times higher than the average. It is her passion for problem solving and love of science that drives her, in advancing our knowledge of disease. Yvonne writes about her work, academic life, and careers as she takes a new road into independent research @dr_yvonne_couch
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher -
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Kamar's blog explores the critical issue of the lack of diversity in academia, particularly within STEM fields, and the role of role models in addressing these disparities. Highlighting the specific challenges faced by women and racial/ethnic minorities, she discusses the importance of role models who reflect diverse demographic characteristics to inspire and guide underrepresented groups.
Kamar argues that having role models in senior academic positions can help challenge the status quo and break the cycle of underrepresentation, thus fostering a more inclusive and diverse academic environment. Her insights underscore the significant impact that relatable role models can have on the career trajectories of individuals in academia, especially in fields like dementia research where women are disproportionately affected yet underrepresented in senior roles.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-what-type-of-role-models-do-we-need-in-academia/
--
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali is a Lecturer in Biomedical Science at Teesside University & Affiliate Researcher at Glasgow University. In addition to teaching, Kamar is exploring how neuroinflammation following traumatic brain injury contributes to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases that lead to dementia. Having first pursued a career as an NHS Psychologist, Kamar went back to University in Durham to look at rodent behavioural tasks to completed her PhD, and then worked as a regional Programme Manager for NC3Rs.
--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher - Se mer
